Guide
Sunscreen & SPF
What is SPF?
Sunscreen is a skincare product that helps protect your skin from the sun’s UV (ultraviolet) rays. , or Sun Protection Factor, measures protection against rays, which are responsible for sunburn. But UVA rays matter too, contributing to long-term skin damage and premature ageing. That’s why I always recommend looking for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB.


Freddie’s take
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable in every daily skincare routine. But choosing one can feel anything but straightforward, with endless information and misinformation around SPF ratings, UVA and UVB.
My advice is simple: look for broad-spectrum protection, SPF 50+ and strong UVA protection, then find a formula that works for your skin and that you’ll actually enjoy using.
What to look for
SPF 50+
SPF measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn. For the highest possible protection, I recommend looking for SPF 50+.
UVA + UVB protection
SPF only tells you about UVB protection, so it’s important to choose a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB. An easy way to remember the difference is UV A geing vs. UV B urning.
Broad-spectrum protection
A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. For the highest possible protection, look for SPF 50+ coupled with a 5 or PA++++ UVA rating*.
A formula you’ll actually use
Both mineral and chemical sunscreens can be highly effective, so it ultimately comes down to skin type and preference. Mineral sunscreens can be a great choice for sensitive or blemish-prone skin, while chemical formulas tend to be lightweight and invisible on the skin.
How to get the most from your SPF
Apply enough. For your face, neck and décolletage, apply approximately ¼ of a teaspoon, or use the ‘3 finger rule’.
Reapply when needed. If you’re in prolonged or direct sunlight, reapply every 2 hours and always after sweating, swimming or drying yourself with a towel.
Wear it all year round. Yes, absolutely. You should apply sunscreen every single day, even on cloudy days. UVA is present all year round and can largely penetrate glass as well as clouds.
Don’t forget your ears. When applying sunscreen to your face, this is an easy area to miss.
Curated skincare
Gentle daily cleanseDR SAM'S
££Flawless Cleanser
Gentle jelly cleanser for everyday use
Cleansing balmElemis
££££Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
Rich cleansing balm that removes makeup and SPF
Cleansing oilMedik8
£££Lipid-Balance Cleansing Oil
Oil cleanser for removing makeup and SPF
Cleansing balmBeauty Of Joseon
££Radiance Cleansing Balm
Cleansing balm for makeup and sunscreen removal
Makeup & SPF removalPrequel
££Pre-Gleanse Cleansing Oil
First-step oil cleanser for makeup and SPF
Daily SPF 50+Beauty Of Joseon
£Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics
Lightweight daily SPF50+ with a hydrating finish
Hydrating SPF 50Tatcha
£££The Milky Sunscreen SPF50
A lightweight SPF 50 sunscreen that combines broad-spectrum UV protection with hydration and soothing ingredients
Vitamin C SPF 30Medik8
£££Daily Radiance Vitamin C SPF30
Vitamin C moisturiser with SPF30
Hydrating SPF 50+Ultra Violette
££Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen SPF 50+
Hydrating facial sunscreen with high protection
Lightweight SPF 50+Beauty Of Joseon
£Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh : Rice + B5
An ultra-lightweight SPF 50+ fluid sunscreen with rice seed water and panthenol for comfortable daily protection
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